Step 1

Remove the sardines from the tin, and drain off excess sauce or oil. Place the sardines, butter and, if using, tomato puree (paste), in a bowl.

Step 2

Mash thoroughly together the ingredients in the bowl using a fork. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3

Toast the bread on one side under a grill (broiler). Butter the untoasted side.

Step 4

Divide the sardine mixture between the toasts. Using a fork, spread the sardine mixture onto the butter side of each toast.

Step 5

Grill the sardine mixture side of the toast until gently browned.